All attendees who do not hold a UN ground badge are kindly requested to register at belarus.geneva@mfa.gov by before 24 April 2017.

About the event:

On the occasion of the arrival of spring, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Belarus wishes to organize a celebration consisting of some elements of the “Gukanne Vyasny” (Call for Spring):

1. Photo exhibition “Living Heritage of Belarus”;
2. Performance by the folkloric company «VIETAKH» with traditional singing and dancing from Belarus.
3. Donation of “Skvorechnik” (nestling boxes) to the Palais des Nations’ park; and symbolic attaching of nestling boxes to trees in the Palais des Nations’ park

Intangible cultural heritage is the best expression of people’s spiritual potential, mentality and philosophy. According to UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage oral traditions and forms of expression, including language, art, social practices, rituals, traditions and festivals are “living heritage” of nations.

Coming of spring after long and harsh months of winter is celebrated in all regions of Belarus in form of various rites, oral expressions and festivities often called by generic name “Gukanne Vyasny” (Call for Spring). Some of them are performed till now in their original ancient form and inscribed into the National Inventory of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. For example, in Minsk region there is a tradition of making nestling boxes “Skvorechnik” and putting them on the trees to invite birds to come and bring warm days. All over the country dancing and singing celebrate awakening of nature after winter giving people hope for new prosperous year.